With 16 randomized controlled trials, deprexis is one of the most extensively researched digital therapies for depression.
deprexis studies: key data at a glance
Consequently, the evidence base for deprexis is not only quantitatively robust due to the large number of studies, but also methodically sound, characterized by a high proportion of RCTs, large sample sizes, and meta-analyses. Furthermore, various treatment settings were included – both standalone use and combination with outpatient or inpatient therapy.
1 Twomey, C., O’Reilly, G., Byrne, M., Bury, M., White, A., Kissane, S., & McMahon, A. (2020). Effectiveness of a tailored, integrative Internet intervention (deprexis) for depression: Updated meta-analysis. PLOS ONE, 15(1), e0228100.
2 Meyer, B, Bierbrodt, J, et al. Effects of an Internet Intervention (Deprexis) on Severe Depression Symptoms: Randomized Controlled Trial. Internet Interventions. 2015; 2(1):48–59. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.invent.2014.12.003
3 Berger T, Krieger T, Sude K, Meyer B, Maercker A. Evaluating an e-mental health program („deprexis“) as adjunctive treatment tool in psychotherapy for depression: Results of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord. 2018;227:455‐462.
Reliable standard care through permanent approval
deprexis is permanently listed in the directory of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).
For you as a prescriber, this ensures reliable standard care: a clearly defined, reimbursable pathway through prescription – with transparent requirements for quality, safety, and evidence.
deprexis can be prescribed using PZN 17265872 and – depending on your practice setup – can be issued either as a paper prescription (Form 16) or as an e-prescription. Information on the prescription pathway and billing can be found on the "Prescribe deprexis" page.
Any questions?
Here you can find frequently asked questions about deprexis and their answers.
In scientific literature, deprexis is classified as a widely researched digital CBT.
This recent review describes deprexis as an application "with the most extensive body of clinical evidence." The current meta-analysis confirms the efficacy of deprexis based on an analysis of 12 RCTs (n = 2,901) focusing on deprexis.
An independent evaluation (project "Trusted Health Apps") also highlights the excellent scientific evaluation of deprexis and rates its mode of action and functions as suitable for achieving its objectives.
A curated overview of research projects and publications can be found on the GAIA website in the Research section. Key studies (e.g., EVIDENT) and cooperation partners are detailed there and regularly updated.
deprexis has been evaluated in cooperation with renowned universities and clinics, including the University of Lübeck / UKSH, the UKE (University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, the University of Bern, Bielefeld University, the University of Trier, and the University of Tübingen.
³ ¹ Meyer, B, Bierbrodt, J, et al. Effects of an Internet Intervention (Deprexis) on Severe Depression Symptoms: Randomized Controlled Trial. Internet Interventions. 2015; 2(1):48–59. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.invent.2014.12.003
⁴ ² Berger T, Krieger T, Sude K, Meyer B, Maercker A. Evaluating an e-mental health program („deprexis“) as adjunctive treatment tool in psychotherapy for depression: Results of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord. 2018;227:455‐462.
Renowned US partners, such as the University of Texas at Austin, also participated in conducting international studies.
As a DiGA (digital health application), deprexis is listed in the BfArM directory and classified as a Risk Class I medical device (under the MDR).
Click here to learn more about the contraindications.
As with depression treatments in general, immediate medical or psychotherapeutic care is required in the event of suicidal risk or an acute crisis.
Yes – deprexis can be prescribed for severe depressive episodes. Its efficacy within this spectrum of indications (including F32.2 and F33.2) has been successfully demonstrated in multiple clinical studies.
deprexis is not suitable for certain severe mental health conditions. These include, for example, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, or acute psychotic episodes.
deprexis should also not be used for bipolar disorders (characterized by severe fluctuations between depressive and manic phases), as well as for acute suicidal crises or other severe mood symptoms.